A late Eunice, Lousiana police officer touched many lives and left a deep impact on the community he served before his untimely passing.

Lt. Robert “Beef” Brickley of the Eunice Police Department, who passed recently from health complications due to leukemia, was well known for protecting his community from violence and serving everyone he crossed paths with.

“We are forever thankful for him. He is truly a special person, and we will miss him dearly,” said resident Ashley St. Cyr. Ashley and her adopted nine-year-old daughter Lilly, will never forget Brickley’s kindness.

Lilly said that she first encountered Brickley when he was walking on patrol and noticed a happy birthday sign in a yard.

“I told him it was my birthday, and that I had never had a birthday before,” said Lilly St. Cyr.

Lilly said that during her upbringing she didn’t have the best relationship with police officers. Her mother told KLFY that she opened up to Brickley and explained her story. The late officer was determined to give her a positive opinion of law enforcement.

So, he threw a party for Lilly.

“He surprised me with all of the police officers and firemen, and they gave me a parade,” Lilly said.

Brickley also called up local businesses to take part in Lilly’s first birthday celebration. Both Lilly and her mother say that Brickley’s actions that day will never be forgotten.

“We were very surprised, and it’s a day that we will never forget,” Ashley St. Cyr. added.

Eunice Police Chief Randy Fontenot could attest to the family’s impression of Brickley, saying he understood the meaning of servanthood, and will be missed.

Brickley is survived by seven children. The Eunice City Marshal’s Office posted ways to help the family on Facebook.